Troops of the Nigerian Army have stepped up their operations against armed bandits in Bauchi State, overrunning several hideouts, rescuing captives, and destroying logistics networks in the Dajin Madam forest.
This was contained in an operational update made available on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to the report, troops of the 33 Artillery Brigade, working alongside a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), carried out a coordinated clearance operation targeting criminal enclaves in the forest.
During the operation, soldiers reportedly dismantled multiple camps, including the Azuge and Hari camps, which are known strongholds of armed groups operating in the area. The military said the action significantly disrupted ongoing criminal activities within the forest belt.
Several bandits were reportedly neutralised during the encounter, while others fled as troops maintained sustained pressure across the terrain.
In the course of the operation, troops also took custody of 19 family members linked to the suspects, comprising six women and 13 children.
Items recovered include an AK-47 magazine, quantities of tramadol, military and police uniforms allegedly used for impersonation, and two horses. Several motorcycles believed to be used for movement and logistics were also destroyed.
Security sources noted that the destruction of these motorcycles has further limited the mobility and operational reach of the fleeing criminals.
The report added that troops have since established a firm presence within the forest to consolidate gains and prevent the regrouping or return of displaced bandits.
In a related development, a follow-up clearance operation was conducted in Mainamaji following recent airstrikes on suspected hideouts in the area. No contact was made during the sweep, a development military authorities described as an indication that sustained pressure has significantly weakened the criminals’ presence.
The Army said the ongoing operations are part of a broader effort to dismantle bandit networks and restrict their movement across affected regions.
It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the offensive until lasting peace and stability are restored in Bauchi State and other affected parts of the country.
The report also called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence to aid ongoing operations.
